The online distributor for Rexel Renewables, Natural Sparx attended the opening of the Rexel Sigma House at the BRE which was officially opened by property developer and TV presenter Sarah Beeny.

After Sarah Beeny’s inspiring speech about driving sustainability in housing through innovation and education the team at Natural Sparx was treated to a tour of the Sigma House, the first home in the UK designed to Code for Sustainable Homes Level 5.

“This unique venue showcases the very best of energy efficient products, and the latest cutting edge technology available. In partnership with our key suppliers and build partner Stewart Milne, we have created an environment in which our innovative products can be viewed in a real-life working situation, and demonstrate how they can help achieve both energy and cost savings in a variety of settings.” Brian Smithers, Business Development Director, UK & Ireland, accompanied Beeny around the house introducing her to many of the innovative products used within the build.

The Sigma Home is an evolving project, which will be updated with the latest technology and energy efficient products. Situated on the BRE Innovation Park in Watford, formerly a governmental research centre, the home is at the forefront of energy efficient construction, benefiting from modern construction methods including, closed panel timber frame, solar panel energy, solar thermal heating and energy efficient lighting.

The Sigma House was occupancy tested by a local family for a two week period in each season in one year. Prior to the official launch on 19th of June 2012, Rexel Energy Solutions Director, Nick Smith gave a tour to Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg and Energy Secretary, Ed Davey.

“The Rexel Sigma House at the BREE Innovation Park is an industry leading project which will help shape the future of energy efficiency within UK homes. It was inspiring to see all the products we sell online through Natural Sparx demonstrated in situ within the property. We are pleased to be able to share this level of educational content with our customers through the website going forward” Maz Hussain, Web Channel Manager, Rexel UK & Ireland

All the products supplied by Rexel in this project are available for purchase on the Natural Sparx website.

About BREE:

The BREE Innovation Park features eight of the world’s leading sustainable houses collectively demonstrating diverse and innovative approaches to sustainable design and construction.

About Rexel:

Through its distribution networks for professional customers in the industrial, residential and commercial sectors, Rexel provides innovative electrical solutions and equipment to improve comfort, performance and energy efficiency.

About Natural Sparx:

Natural Sparx, is the online purchasing solution for installers of Solar PV and Solar Thermal. Backed by Rexel, Natural Sparx customers get a quick order service with all the knowledge and expertise of the Rexel Renewables team whilst being assured of product quality and competitive pricing. The website, launched at Ecobuild 2012, is open for online registrations.